House of Fishing and Nature

In a picturesque corner favored by Impressionist painters lies the House of Fishing and Nature (Maison de la Pêche et de la Nature) — a unique center for environmental education. Located on the Île de la Jatte in a suburb that virtually merges with Paris, this site offers guests a deep dive into the world of freshwater ecosystems that France is so proud of.

Maison de la Pêche et de la Nature. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The center's building, crafted from marble and glass, harmoniously blends into the landscape of a 15,000 m² park. The heart of the complex is the Seine Museum-Aquarium, where four dozen tanks showcase the inhabitants of the country's main river. Here, you can see not only common roach or pike but also impressive catfish, as well as rare aquatic turtles and crayfish.

Special emphasis is placed on interactivity and education. The center doesn't just display fish; it tells the story of the interaction between man and nature. Next to the main building, there is an educational apiary, home to over a million bees, and a pedagogical garden, making this site a true oasis of biodiversity within the metropolis.

For more information on current events and to sign up for workshops, you can contact the center's administration directly.

The main magnet for visitors is the Museum-Aquarium, where you can spend hours watching the underwater life of the Seine. Be sure to stop by the 360° panoramic aquarium and take a look at the "nursery" for young fry. A highlight for both children and adults is the tactile pool: here, under the supervision of staff, you are allowed to gently pet friendly koi carp and Siberian sturgeons.

For those looking to master the art of angling, the center hosts a Fishing School. Professional instructors lead youth sessions and family workshops, teaching the nuances of fly fishing or how to handle predatory fish species. During the summer months, it is worth visiting the local apiary to learn how bees live and to taste fresh honey gathered right in the park.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace will enjoy a walk along the maple-lined alleys and the aromatic herb garden. You can also try your hand at ornithology, observing the rare birds for which the park has become a safe haven. Throughout the year, the center hosts themed festivals dedicated to spring, water, and autumn, turning a regular visit into a vibrant celebration.

The attraction is located at 22 Allée Claude Monet in the suburb of Levallois-Perret. It is a picturesque spot on Île de la Jatte, easily accessible from the center of the French capital. The journey by public transport takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

The most convenient way is to take Metro Line 3 and get off at Pont de Levallois-Bécon station. From there, it’s a short walk across the bridge with lovely views of the Seine. Nearby, you will also find the Bécon-les-Bruyères RER station (Line L/J) and the T2 tram stop. If you prefer a taxi, the ride from the city center is quick and comfortable.

For those who enjoy active travel, there are bicycle paths along the river. The 15,000 m² park is open to the public and equipped with pleasant walking paths, making the stroll to the center a delightful addition to your visit.

The history of this site began in 1980 when the authorities of Levallois handed over a two-story building at the tip of Île de la Jatte to a fishing association. The island itself is of historical significance, having inspired many famous Impressionist painters to create their masterpieces.

The official opening of the House of Fishing and Nature took place on June 12, 1993. From the very beginning, the project was designed as a unique educational center aimed at teaching city dwellers about the richness of the Seine's ecosystem and the importance of water conservation.

Over decades of operation, the center has expanded significantly, adding modern aquariums, opening a fishing school, and establishing a pedagogical garden. In the 2000s, the surrounding park was officially designated as a "Refuge Jardin d’Oiseaux" (Bird Sanctuary Garden), confirming its vital role in supporting urban biodiversity.

A standard tour of the aquarium exhibits and a stroll through the adjacent park typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours. This is enough time to observe the fish, visit the tactile pool, and read the informative displays about the region's nature.

If you plan to participate in educational workshops, visit the apiary, or book a guided tour, it is best to set aside half a day. For families with children, this is an excellent option for spending time outdoors away from the busy tourist thoroughfares.

The center operates on a specific schedule focused on weekends and midweek. You can visit the House of Fishing and Nature on Wednesdays from 10:00 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:00, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 13:00 to 18:00.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday are closing days for individual visitors (except during school holidays). We recommend checking the official website before your trip, as the schedule may change depending on the season or special events.

Exploring the area around Île de la Jatte can significantly enrich your trip. Its proximity to the city center makes it easy to combine a visit to the aquarium with other popular family and entertainment locations.

Below are several nearby attractions that may interest both children and adults: